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The beloved crime series Line of Duty is officially returning for its 7th installment, confirmed by the BBC.

An upcoming six-part season written by the show's creator will begin filming in Belfast in the coming months, as confirmed by the network.

Vicky McClure expressed excitement about the return, saying she was "thrilled" about the show's renewal. Adrian Dunbar remarked, "What a joy it is to know that the main trio will be reuniting together soon."

The previous series wrapped up in recent years with a finale that attracted over 17 million viewers. Rumors about a potential return have been widespread for some time, but official word only came recently.

New Challenges for The Team

The seventh season will open with AC-12 no longer existing and rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards, according to the announcement.

Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings continue tasked to tackle corruption within the law enforcement.

The team's mission "has never been more difficult", and under these circumstances, these officers will take on their "most delicate case so far."

Fresh Face and Intricate Plot

A new character, DI Dominic Gough, described as a charming officer celebrated for busts of organized crime, is accused of misusing his authority to act as a offender.

Yet, this investigation could be a deliberate distraction from a larger danger still active in the shadows, plot details suggested.

In a statement, the creator said: "Everyone involved feels enormous gratitude to the dedicated viewers."

"It's an honor to have had countless followers watch the developments of AC-12 over multiple series and we are thrilled to be coming back for a new season."

Mercurio continued: "Corruption in the UK is supposed to have ended while the series was not airing, so I've been forced to use my creativity."

Cast Reactions

Martin Compston called being part of the series as "a job of a lifetime".

"Not only the show's success but the colleagues I've worked with I now call dear friends."

"I'm excited to wear the uniform again and reunite with everyone," he said.

Vicky McClure remarked: "It goes without saying I'm so excited Line of Duty is returning! Eager to work with the creator, Martin and Dunbar again. Belfast, we'll be there shortly!"

Adrian Dunbar commented: "While anticipating the unit days of Christmas, how exciting it is to know that the central trio will be back filming next year."

"Pleased with the news and looking forward to those mercurial twists and turns."

Series Legacy

The drama launched in the early 2010s and became one of the most popular television series of the last decade, featuring notable actors such as Thandiwe Newton.

Broadcasters has not yet announced when the new season will hit screens.

The conclusion of season six brought the long-running storyline about the search for kingpin known as "the mysterious H" to a close, and the creative team said at the moment there were no plans for further series.

Nevertheless, the network confirmed on this week that a new season is now in development.